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11 days
Specific Tour
30 people
English
An Unforgettable 11-Day Journey through Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Beyond
Egypt, a land steeped in mystery and enigma, has captivated the hearts and minds of adventurers, historians, and wanderers for centuries. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the towering statues of Abu Simbel, the country is a treasure trove of ancient wonders that have stood the test of time.
Embarking on an 11-day journey through the vibrant cities of Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and beyond, you will be transported back in time to an era of pharaohs, gods, and mythical legends. Prepare to be mesmerized by the grandeur of the ancient temples, the intricate hieroglyphics adorning the walls, and the stories that echo through the corridors of these awe-inspiring structures.
Your adventure begins in Cairo, the bustling capital city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Here, you will explore the iconic landmarks such as the awe-inspiring Great Pyramid of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the captivating Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts, including the priceless treasures of Tutankhamun.
From Cairo, you will journey south along the fertile banks of the Nile River, the lifeblood of Egypt, to Luxor. Known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor boasts a wealth of ancient sites that will leave you in awe. Step foot into the sprawling Karnak Temple complex, where colossal statues, towering columns, and intricately carved reliefs paint a vivid picture of Egypt’s glorious past. Cross the Nile to explore the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were laid to rest in elaborate tombs adorned with precious treasures.
Continuing your expedition, you will sail serenely down the Nile on your Deluxe Nile Cruise, witnessing the timeless landscapes and picturesque villages that have dotted the riverbanks for centuries. As you approach Aswan, prepare to be amazed by the monumental Abu Simbel temples, hewn from the cliffs, and guarding the southern borders of ancient Egypt.
Beyond the well-trodden path, you will discover hidden gems such as the Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Philae Island, where the Philae Temple stands as a testament to the resilience of ancient structures in the face of modern progress.
With each passing day, you will unravel the mysteries and secrets of this ancient civilization, guided by knowledgeable experts who will bring history to life with their captivating storytelling. From witnessing the mesmerizing sound and light show at the Pyramids to savoring traditional Egyptian cuisine, every moment of this journey will be etched into your memory forever.
Join us as we embark on this unforgettable 11-day adventure through Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and beyond, and be prepared to be enchanted by the treasures of Egypt that have stood the test of time.
As our unforgettable 11-day journey through Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and beyond ends, it’s impossible not to be captivated by the enduring magic of Egypt’s ancient treasures. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the breathtaking temples of Luxor and the tranquil beauty of the Nile River, this land of pharaohs and legends has left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.
So, if you are seeking an adventure that combines history, culture, and awe-inspiring beauty, look no further than our well planned tour to Egypt. Let the treasures of this timeless land transport you to a world of wonder and enchantment, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Arrive at Cairo Airport. Meet-and-assist service will be provided through luggage collection and customs, then you will be transferred to your hotel “Cairo Marriott Omar Khayam hotel & Casino”. Evening welcome dinner with your program director at hotel. (D)
After a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel, start the day with a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure “Entry to one pyramid included”. Marvel at the architectural brilliance of these ancient structures and learn about their historical significance from our expert Egyptologist guide. A camel ride is included in today’s tour in the Egyptian Sahara. A trip to the Giza plateau wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Giza Sphinx, a land Mark of Egypt that stood gloriously for over 4500 years, get close and admire the standing face of Egypt, before saying farewell to the only remaining wonder from the ancient world. After your visit, we will explore the Egyptian cuisine in a local restaurant, before returning to the hotel in the afternoon. (B, L)
Egypt is a treasure trove of history and wonder, and Dahshour and Sakkara are two destinations that perfectly exemplify this rich heritage. These ancient sites, located just outside of Cairo, are often overshadowed by the more famous pyramids of Giza, but they hold their own unique charm and significance. Dahshour boasts the iconic Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, while Sakkara is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt. On today’s tour, we will take a closer look at these extraordinary sites and delve into the fascinating history and secrets they hold with narration of your expert Egyptologist tour guide, who will elaborate as well the wall paintings of some of the most colorful tombs within the area. After the tour, lunch will be served in a country style restaurant. (B, L)
Stepping into a museum is like stepping back in time, where ancient artifacts and historical treasures come to life. The Grand Egyptian Museum, with its grandeur, that is set to open its doors for visitors in March 2024, will hold a vast collection of mesmerizing artifacts that offer a glimpse into the captivating world of ancient Egypt. From monumental statues of pharaohs to intricately carved papyrus scrolls, each artifact tells a unique story of an ancient civilization that continues to intrigue and inspire us today. On this tour, we will delve into the enchanting world of museum artifacts, exploring their significance, preservation, and the fascinating stories they hold. Join your professional Egyptologist and embark on a journey through time to uncover the wonders of the Grand Egyptian Museum's awe-inspiring collection. Important note: If for any reason the Grand Egyptian Museum opening is delayed post the tour date, the visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum will be replaced by the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant. Hidden amidst the bustling streets of Old Cairo lies a treasure trove of ancient history and religious significance. The Church of St. Sergius, the Holy Family Crypt, and the Hanging Church are pillars of spirituality and architectural marvels that draw visitors from around the world. Stepping into these sacred spaces is like stepping back in time, where the echoes of centuries-old prayers still linger in the air. Learn about the early years of Christianity and witness the Holly Crypt where Jesus and The Virgin Mary stayed during their visit to Egypt. (B, L)
This morning, check out of your Cairo Hotel and transfer to Cairo Airport for a short 1-hour flight to Luxor. Upon arrival in Luxor, we will guide you the Karnak Temple. Built over 3,000 years ago, the Karnak Temple is the largest ancient religious site in the world. Dedicated to the worship of Amun, this temple was the most important in ancient Egypt. The temple was built over several centuries by successive pharaohs and was expanded upon by each one, resulting in a complex structure that is awe-inspiring to behold. After visiting the temple, check into your deluxe “Sonesta Nile Goddess” Nile Cruiser. Lunch and will be served in the main restaurant onboard the cruise. Early evening visit to the Luxor Temple, built around 1,400 BC. It is dedicated to Amun's wife Mutt and her son Khonsu. It has been used for both religious and political purposes and has also served as a venue for several festivals and ceremonies. Dinner and entertainment on bord the cruise. (B, L, D).
After an early morning breakfast on the cruise, tour the famous sites on the West bank of the River Nile. The Valley of the Kings is a magnificent site located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt. This valley is home to the tombs of many pharaohs and their families, including the famous Tutankhamun. The Valley was the royal burial ground for ancient Egyptian pharaohs from the 18th to the 20th dynasties. The pharaohs were buried in elaborate tombs that were filled with treasures and artifacts to accompany them to the afterlife. The tombs are decorated with beautiful wall paintings and hieroglyphics that tell the story of the pharaoh's life and their journey to the afterlife. The site is vast, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring the tombs and admiring the beautiful ancient art. The area is surrounded by breathtaking desert landscapes, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight. The Valley of the Kings is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and artistic skill of the ancient Egyptians. We shall be visiting 3 of the open tombs in the valley, plus the premium tombs of King Ramses VI. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is one of the most impressive architectural wonders of ancient Egypt. This temple was built in honor of one of the most powerful female pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Hatshepsut was known for her ambitious building projects and her successful military campaigns. The temple was designed to reflect her power and status. The Colossi of Memnon are two massive statues that have been standing in the Theban Necropolis for over 3,000 years. The statues were created to guard the entrance to the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, a pharaoh of the 18th dynasty. Each statue is made from a single piece of sandstone and stands 60 feet tall. The statues were once known for the strange sounds they made at sunrise, which were believed to be the voice of Memnon, we shall have a photo stop before these gigantic statues, before returning to the cruise and sailing to Edfu. Lunch and dinner will be served on the cruise. (B, L, D)
In the morning, you will witness the most complete and well-preserved temple in Egypt, flanked by beautiful granite statues of the falcon deity Horus. The reliefs that cover the walls, columns, and doorways of this Ptolemaic temple constitute an extremely important source of information about ancient Egyptian religious and political beliefs. Among the most interesting of these reliefs are those that demonstrate the story of Horus's revenge on Seth for the murder of his father, Osiris, an event that was celebrated annually in the temple. Other reliefs recount the stages of the temple's construction and provide dates for the completion of different building elements. After the temple visit, you will return to the cruise for lunch and sailing to Komombo. In the late afternoon, we will arrive at Komombo and visit the temple overlooking the River Nile, which was dedicated to two deities: Horus the falcon and Sobek the crocodile. After the visit, we'll return to the cruise and sail to Aswan. Dinner will be served on board the cruise ship. (B, L, D)
Morning visit to the Aswan High Dam, considered the biggest project accomplished in Egypt during the 20th century AD, followed by a visit to the temples of Isis, famously known as the temples of Philae. Isis was one of the most important deities of the ancient Egyptians, for whom a beautiful temple was built in an amazing location on an island in the River Nile. Lunch will be served on the cruise. In the afternoon we'll be travelling by motorboat to visit the Nubian Village, located on the west bank of the River Nile. Aswan's original population consists of Nubians, who have their own culture and lifestyles. By being hosted in one of their homes for tea, we get a close view of their lives and learn about their traditions, language, and history. (B, L, D)
This morning, you will check out from cruise and be transported to Aswan Airport for your flight to Abu Simbel. Upon arrival in Abu Simbel, you will be transported to the site of the great temples of Ramses II and his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari. The temples here are a highlight of any tour, with two grand temples carved in the rock of the mountain - a marvel of engineering - and another miracle in their relocation when they needed to be rescued following the construction of the High Dam of Aswan, and the rising waters of Lake Naser that had already started to cover them. After visiting the temples, you will be transported to Abu Simbel airport for a short flight to Aswan. Upon arriving at Aswan airport, you will be transported to the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel. The rest of the day will be at leisure. Dinner will be at the historical restaurant of your hotel. (B, D)
This morning, you will be checking-out from Sofitel Legend Old Cataract hotel, and transported to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo. Upon arriving at Cairo airport, you will be transported to the Intercontinental City Stars hotel or a similar one. Farewell dinner will be at the hotel. (B, D)
Today, according to your departure flight time, you'll be transported to Cairo airport for your flight. (B)
When booking your international flight tickets, please make sure your flight to Cairo arrives on April 18th, 2024, which is the first day of the tour, then send us a message with your flight details to arrange your pick up at Cairo airport on arrival day. If you need assistance with booking your flights, our customer service will assist you in finding the best combination of connecting flights, and the best airfare, and booking for you, your flight e-tickets will then be emailed to you after the ticket is issued and paid for.
You don't need to do that, your arrival airport transportation to your hotel, as well as your departure airport transfer, are included in your package, provided you send us your flight arrival and departure details at least 15 days before your tour start date.
Yes, a visa to enter Egypt is required. US passport holders though are eligible for a visa on arrival at Cairo airport. It could be obtained for approx. USD35 on arrival. If you wish to save on queuing for getting the visa stamp, please preselect the visa extra fee option in the tour add-on, the number of visa fee addons needs to be the number of persons requesting this service. For example, if you are 2 persons booking together, please add 2 visa fees.
The tour price is based on the price for 1 person sharing a double room, so if you are one person booking, you will be matched with another traveler to share the room with during the tour. In case you wish to stay in your own room without sharing, you need to add a single supplement to have the room for yourself. If you are 2 or more persons booking together, and both are requesting to have their own rooms, then 2 single supplements need to be added. In case of two persons booking together, and one single supplement is booked, then the person with the first entered name in the booking will be assigned a single room, and the second will be matched with another traveler to share with.
All hotels booked on this tour are 5 stars deluxe hotels, and a 5 stars deluxe Nile Cruise.
Nile cruises are all limited to a certain width of 48 feet maximum width, to be able to navigate through the locks on the river Nile, which is why they are normally smaller in size than traditional hotel rooms. On the cruises we always book rooms above the water level, and include the extra cost for that in the tour package pricing in case there is. So, we do not charge extra for above-water level cabins as this is already included. The cruises we book are 5 stars deluxe, with cabins to match that level of service and amenities.
Once you book the tour, the tour itinerary will be sent to your email, including all information about the tour, and as well about the destination. If you need information before booking, please contact our customer service line, where a destination expert will talk to you in person and answer your questions on the spot.
